CHCH: Divorce Season - Featuring Laura Paris, Shulman & Partners

In an interview with CHCH Morning Live, Associate Lawyer Laura Paris from Shulman & Partners LLP spoke about why the weeks leading up to Valentine’s Day are often less about romance and more about difficult decisions. In the world of family law, this period sits in the middle of what many refer to as divorce season, a time when separation and divorce inquiries rise sharply between January and March. Laura helped explain why this seasonal spike happens, how holiday stress and financial pressure can push struggling relationships to a breaking point, and what individuals should think about before taking formal steps toward separation. The conversation focused on practical preparation, understanding legal rights and obligations, and ways to reduce unnecessary conflict, particularly for families with children and shared finances.

“I would say, for the most part, the best thing to actually do is to make the call. Have a conversation with a lawyer, understand what you’re walking into; the separation process is not a pleasant one. Obviously, having an advocate by your side to move you forward through it makes it a lot easier, because they can help guide you through the process.”
— Laura Paris, Associate Lawyer, Shulman & Partners LLP

Laura explained why divorce-related inquiries tend to surge from January to March. Many people who are already struggling in their relationships choose not to initiate separation during the holiday season, particularly when children are involved. Instead, they wait until the new year, when the social and emotional demands of December have eased and the reality of holiday spending begins to arrive in the form of bills. For some, that “new year, new me” mindset becomes a natural point to confront issues that have been pushed aside.

She noted that the holidays can intensify existing strains. Financial pressure, extended family time and the expectation that everything should feel “happy” can all amplify underlying conflicts. What may have simmered quietly during the year can boil over once the decorations come down and normal life resumes.

When asked what someone should do before making that first call to a lawyer, Laura emphasized that reaching out early is often the most constructive step. An initial consultation is not a commitment to separate. Instead, it is an opportunity to understand what separation would actually mean. People want to know how their housing situation might change, what support payments could look like, how assets and debts might be addressed and what parenting time and decision making could involve if they have children. While no lawyer can predict the total cost of a separation, Laura explained that a consultation can provide a clearer roadmap so people can prepare mentally, emotionally and financially.

She also acknowledged the emotional weight of separation. To advocate effectively, she needs to understand the personal dynamics and the context behind the breakup. At the same time, she works within the boundaries of the law and recognizes when her clients might benefit from additional support, such as counseling or therapy, alongside legal advice.

A key part of the discussion focused on situations where couples are already largely in agreement. Laura said that when spouses have spoken and are on the same page about how they want to move forward, mediation can be an excellent option. In those cases, a lawyer can work in the background to explain legal rights, review proposals and ensure any eventual agreement is sound, while the couple uses mediation to resolve issues cooperatively. This approach can help avoid unnecessary conflict and reduce the risk of long, court-driven disputes that are shaped by crowded dockets and slow timelines.

Throughout the segment, Laura encouraged viewers to see information and preparation as tools that can make an already difficult season a little more manageable.

Watch the full CHCH Morning Live segment here.

This media appearance is part of Shulman & Partners LLP’s ongoing contributions to Canadian family law discussions. Explore more of our media features in our In the Media  archive.